Tom Says: “I don’t know him, but I think I like him.”
If Nova Scotia Independent MP Bill Casey walked into a room where I was, I wouldn’t know him — but from what I’ve heard from people who do — I like him.
He’s been described to me as an honourable, honest, decent principled hard working guy trying to take care of federal matters for those who live in his constituency.
He was a Conservative — he still is a conservative — and he can be my member of parliament any time.
If someone said: “Tom, who’s your MP?”
I could proudly say: “Bill Casey.”
If Stephen Harper walked into a room, I don’t know him, but I would probably recognize him — and I don’t like him.
I don’t think any of the words I used to describe Bill Casey could in any way shape or form be applied to our Prime Minister. Any politician who would say what Harper said Wednesday about Mr. Casey deserves nothing but my disdain.
Our Prime Minister has turned our federal political system into a blood sport.
Bill Casey is there for the people, Stephen Harper is there for the power.
I’m involved in municipal politics, I ran once in a provincial election and even took a look at federal politics. I’ve been to many backroom political meetings, both Liberal and Conservative and I have friends of all political stripes.
If I had to lose a good friend and colleague like Bill Casey was to Stephen Harper over politics — I think it would then be time for me to re-examine my life.
If Casey ever writes a handbook on what federal politicians are supposed to do, then perhaps he’ll mail a copy to Mr. Harper.
I’m Tom Young.
October 12th, 2007 at 4:36 am
Mr. Casey fell on his sword for us in NS. I wish that he could have reconciled with the Feds, but this is not going to happen. I do not agree with the PMs stance here. Good luck in the future Mr. Casey.
October 13th, 2007 at 6:13 pm
Bill Casey is a rare example in politics. Most of our politicians just don’t have the moral compass that this man possesses. They talk the good talk, but their political careers are based on self-preservation. Avoid sticking your neck out, shooting your mouth off or sticking your foot in it and you’ll hopefully serve long enough to gather a parliamentary pension.
We elect our MPs with the expectation that they will take our concerns to Ottawa and represent our opinions in matter of state. But the truth is, that there job is to follow obediently, taking their lead from party whips. Taking a stand for a just cause is often an act of martyrdom. In my opinion, the MP that properly serves his/her constituents views begins or ends up, inevitably, as an independent MP.
Cast out, after the pathetic blathering of Peter MacKay that, “We will not throw a member out of caucus for voting his conscience. There will be no whipping, flipping, hiring or firing on budget votes as we saw with the Liberal government.” Who found it incredibly easy to make such a bold faced lie, because he obviously had no idea that someone could have the intestinal fortitude to do so!
Most recently followed by Harper’s comments of clarity that Bill would not be allowed back. Well Bill to paraphrase Groucho Marx, you don’t want to be part of any club that would have such a sniveling, resentful autocrat as its leader. Which brings to mind another of my favorite Groucho quotes “I have a mind to join a club and beat you over the head with it.”
October 17th, 2007 at 1:16 pm
As a large supporter of Bill Casey, I am impressed by both the indepth coverage and inspiring debate around his current “may we call it, situation.”
As you have stated above, people who know him like him. I’m proud to say I’m one of those people. Bill stands up for the people. He is the true definition of an MP.
My sincere thanks for your ongoing coverage.
October 23rd, 2007 at 2:45 pm
Bill Casey has become the Terry Fox of this decade. He has the support and ability to unite this country because he has stepped out of the norm and acted like a honest trustworthy politician. He is a true representative of the people who elect him and the region he represents. I would vote for him and feel he has the potential to lead any party he wishes and get elected.
November 16th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
Tom,
Glad to hear your a Bill Casey fan; I am too. He has a great website. www.billcasey.ca. You should check it out. A bit off topic, I am 26 yrs old and listen to your show everyday with a large double-double from Timmies . The large majority of your callers seem to be of the “baby boomer” generation or older. A month ago or so you and a caller were discussing how the younger generation are not as involved in politics as they should be. That is very true. I love politics/political issues, but I can’t talk politics with friends because, as you were mentioning, the young generation generally does not inform themselves with politics/political issues. And as interested in politics as I am, I often find that the foolishness and unmature behavior that goes along with Canadian politics is unbearable. The government needs to concentrate on getting the younger generation involved in their country. The young generation is smart, motivated, open minded, etc…, and these qualities would be great assets to our government. Political parties in counties, provinces and federally should have representatives from the young generation.
Thanks,
Josh Lake email@ edvedder_88@hotmail.com